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HB 2114

Local Government, General - As introduced, authorizes a local government to publish certain notices electronically online for the purposes of satisfying public notice requirements. - Amends TCA Title 1, Chapter 3 and Title 8, Chapter 44.

114th Regular Session (2025-2026) Introduced by John Crawford

HB 2114 permits Tennessee local governments to publish public notices online rather than exclusively in print, potentially reducing costs but raising concerns about citizen access and local news funding.

H. Placed on Regular Calendar for 4/20/2026
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Bill Summary · HB 2114

Legislative bill overview

HB 2114 allows Tennessee local governments to publish required public notices online instead of exclusively in print newspapers. The bill amends state law governing public notice requirements in Title 1, Chapter 3 and Title 8, Chapter 44 to authorize electronic publication as a method of satisfying legal notification obligations.

Why is this important

Public notices inform citizens about government decisions, hearings, budgets, and other matters requiring transparency. Modernizing notice requirements to permit digital publication could reduce government printing costs and reach digitally-connected residents more efficiently, though it may exclude citizens without reliable internet access or those who traditionally rely on print newspapers for civic information.

Potential points of contention

  • Digital divide concerns: Requiring or allowing online-only notices could exclude elderly residents, rural populations with poor internet access, and others who don't regularly access online platforms, potentially undermining equal access to government information
  • Newspaper industry impact: Local news organizations depend partly on public notice advertising revenue; shifting notices online could reduce their financial viability at a time when local journalism is already struggling
  • Implementation standards: The bill's scope regarding which notices qualify, required website accessibility standards, how long notices must remain posted, and whether print alternatives must still be available remain unclear without amendment details

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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